Mr. Bonar Law informed the House that the change in
the leadership of the Opposition meant no change in the Opposi- tion view of foreign politics. He was convinced that every step taken by the Government and described by Sir Edward Grey had been taken with sole regard to British interests. There was no feeling of hostility to Germany. The speech of Mr. Lloyd George had this advantage, that when such a member of the Government made such a speech every one knew that there was no question of division of opinion in the Cabinet. He was able to express virtually unre- served approval of the policy of the Government. Great Britain desired no more territory—she had enough—and the right policy now was to build up, not to enlarge. Mr. Ramsay MacDonald expressed strong disapproval of the Government's policy. They had adhered to Lord Lansdowne'a principles in an extreme form ; Mr. Lloyd George's speech was unfortunate, and the whole story of the negotiations was a condemnation of secret diplomacy. Mr. Asquith in very well-chosen words repeated the sense of Sir Edward Grey's declaration. Sir Edward Grey replied to various criticisms, justified our policy in Persia, and insisted on the need of observing neutrality between Turkey and Italy. The debate was on the whole a very good one, and among its best features was the speech of the Unionist leader. Mr. Bomar Law has not hitherto studied foreign affairs, but in truth that is no defect. He brings a receptive mind and a sound judgment to the consideration of international problems, and these above all things are what are wanted.
Previous page
